20 July 2008
Department for Innovation, Universities and Skills (DIUS)
 
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Energy Efficiency

Energy Efficiency is a key part of the Government’s energy policies, because it is the most cost effective way to reduce emissions, improves productivity, and contributes to our security of supply.

Departmental lead on energy efficiency is the responsibility of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra).

On the Defra: Energy and Climate Change - Energy Efficiency webpage, you will find detailed information on the Government’s key policies on energy efficiency.

How Can I Save Energy?

Household Sector

The Energy Saving Trust offers tailored programmes to help domestic consumers become more energy efficient including the “Act on CO2” campaign and the Government’s “Green Homes” service. Visit their website or call 0800 512 012 for impartial help and advice.

Business and Public Sector Organisations

The Carbon Trust provides free advice to business and the public sector to help reduce energy use.

Carbon Emissions Reduction Target (CERT)

The big six energy suppliers have an obligation placed upon them (the Carbon Emissions Reduction Target (CERT)) by Government to achieve carbon savings in the domestic housing sector. Suppliers meet their obligation by installing subsidised approved measures in the homes of consumers (with the most popular being cavity wall and loft insulation plus low energy light bulbs) and in return, receive a score against their overall target. For details of supplier offerings, see the links below:

CERT is administered by the Regulator, Ofgem, who also monitors progress towards the overall target and reports on a regular basis to the Secretary of State. Ofgem reports can be viewed on the Ofgem: Energy Efficiency webpage.

CERT commenced on 1 April 2008 and will run until 31 March 2011.

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